Skin Improvements in Acne Vulgaris Patients Using Gel-Matrix Moisturizer as a Complement to Topical Treatments

A novel gel-matrix moisturizer was designed to 1) deliver immediate, long-lasting hydration benefits in a lightweight, non-greasy, noncomedogenic formula that is suitable for use on dry, oily, acne-prone, and sensitive skin; 2) reduce acne-related and acne medication–induced skin irritation and dryness; and 3) improve quality of life (QoL), when used as an adjunctive moisturizer by patients with acne using topical treatments.

To assess the biological effects of the gel-matrix moisturizer on key epidermal proteins of skin barrier function, and clinical improvements in skin attributes and tolerability in adults with acne undergoing topical treatment.

Preclinical and clinical studies evaluated the tolerability of the gel-matrix moisturizer and its effects on filaggrin and aquaporin-3 protein levels (markers of barrier function), skin texture, appearance, and QoL in the study population.

In skin explant studies, the gel-matrix moisturizer demonstrated significant increases in levels of filaggrin (+36%) and aquaporin-3 (+102%) versus untreated controls (both P<0.05). Clinically, at week 4 compared with baseline, the gel-matrix moisturizer demonstrated significant improvements in visual skin smoothness, roughness, clarity, radiance, pore issues, and overall skin appearance (all P<0.01), as well as significant decreases in skin itching (P<0.01) and tightness (P<0.002). Patients with acne also using topical over the counter and prescription treatments reported significant improvements in QoL at week 4 (P<0.001).

The gel-matrix moisturizer improved barrier function and skin attributes without exacerbating acne symptoms, offering suitable topical moisturization when used as an adjunctive moisturizer with acne treatments.  .